By Rob Rothwell, The Province

Originally published: February 26, 2013

SMALL

MEDIUM

LARGE

There are as many variations on the crossover theme as there are coffee drinks at your local Starbucks.

It seems I’m always in line behind the customer ordering the latest multi-layered permutation of espresso, soy and syrup heated to precisely 155 degrees. With the reintroduction of the allroad, that customer could be Audi.

A more urbane feel

Audi’s former allroad was based on the A6 wagon, and was better equipped to handle off-road sojourns with attributes such as greater power, height-adjustable suspension and hill-descent control. Today’s allroad is an A4 Avant derivative, but that doesn’t compromise its suitability for the vast majority of crossover buyers. In fact, I’d argue the 2013 allroad gives most buyers what they need to fulfil their transportation needs while holding back on what they don’t. Most important on the “must-have” list is Audi’s sophisticated quattro all-wheel drive technology. Next “up” is just that: up. The allroad, with its prominent yard-rake grill, which I happen to like, no longer receives height-adjustable suspension. In place of that expensive setup, Audi engineers discreetly raised the ride height by 38 mm (1.5 inches), giving a total distance between granite and steel of 180 mm (7.1 inches). Canadians who drive regularly in snowy conditions know all too well the importance of adequate ground clearance. Four spinning wheels become fruitless when the vehicle is high-centred on snow built up beneath the chassis. For all its benefit though, an increased ride height can also impose penalties.

Exceptional handling

A vehicle’s centre of gravity largely influences its ability to deliver secure, predictable handling characteristics. Audi engineers have managed to largely retain the exceptional agility and composure of the A4 Avant in the allroad, making it a delight to push with a dram of enthusiasm in the corners. This is where the configuration of a crossover wagon, such as the allroad, is superior to the roly-poly handling of a typical crossover SUV, making the allroad much more of a “driver’s” crossover. That theme prevails beneath the hood, as well.

Turbocharged torque

While a diesel engine would be a great addition, the 2.0-litre turbocharged TFSI powerplant used by Audi in this and many of its other products is a dynamite little mill that doesn’t disappoint, especially when connected to a broad range of eight gears.

The DOHC I-4 engine inhales premium fuel to produce 211 horsepowerctrack val="-1.50000e-002"/>Thanks to the tenacious grip of Audi’s battle-tested quattro system, no wheelspin or torque-steer is encountered during city or highway driving. Fuel consumption is rated at 10.4L/100km and 7.4L/100km city and highway.

That’s not exactly great economy but when one considers the V6-like performance of the 4-cylinder power plant, it’s reasonable despite the need for a second job to underwrite premium-fuel usage.

Sweet ride

For me, the most notable trait of the allroad is its ability to blend the driving dynamics of a premium Euro-sports sedan with the practicality of a crossover. It’s a bit like having your cake and driving it too, and that makes for a sweet ride defined by commendable levels of operational refinement and performance. Off-the-line acceleration is remarkably strong, and the pull is maintained as the 8-speed Tiptronic slots cog after cog with deft precision. The accompanying engine note is anything but frenetic, as it often is with 4-bangers. Rather, one is treated to a polished growl that’s deeply muted yet pleasing to the ears of enthusiasts. The allroad’s speed-sensitive electromechanical steering is one of the better examples of electric power-steering that I’ve come upon. It’s precise, linear and responsive. It also makes parking a breeze by offering very little resistance at low speed. Arc the speedo, and the steering takes on a whole new persona, feeling taut and communicative. A final driving comment is reserved for the allroad’s outstanding solidity. I’ve read about Audi’s obsession with the elimination of squeaks, rattles and all things inharmonious. A drive along some of our city’s dishevelled roads provided plenty of evidence — or not — to support this preoccupation. Evidence is most often something, but in this case it was nothing. No discord to be despised, leaving the allroad feeling resolute and cohesive throughout.

All roads ahead

It’s an appropriate name — allroad. And to be clear, it’s not “offroad.” The more urbane allroad may be the latest crossover coffee concoction, but it’s one worth ordering for those seeking an upscale-Euro ride that drives like a sports sedan while providing the benefits of an all-wheel drive crossover. As with the java, be prepared to pay heavy at the til. My tester rang in at $50,450 without navigation or Audi’s MMI technology.